Hexahydrocannabinol (HHC) is a popular new cannabinoid that provides many of the same effects as THC. As HHC use increases, a common question is how long does HHC stay in your system.
Understanding factors that influence how long cannabinoids last in your system can help guide safe HHC consumption. This article provides research-backed insights on HHC detection times.
Contents
What is HHC and How Does it Work?
HHC is a synthetically produced relative of THC derived from legal hemp. Small amounts occur naturally, but not enough for commercial production.
Similar to THC, HHC binds with endocannabinoid receptors to produce euphoric and relaxing effects. Early research suggests metabolites created during HHC breakdown may differ from THC.
Why Do Cannabinoids Stay in Your System?
All cannabinoids accumulate in fat cells throughout the body. Over time, stored compounds are slowly released back into the bloodstream and broken down by the liver.
Several factors dictate how quickly complete excretion occurs:
- Frequency of use: More frequent consumption leads to larger accumulations that take longer to fully metabolize.
- Dosage size: Higher doses result in more cannabinoids stored.
- Genetics: Everyone metabolizes compounds differently based on genetic factors.
- Body fat percentage: More body fat provides increased storage capacity.
- Product type: Inhaled HHC enters the bloodstream quicker than edibles.
Under optimal conditions with one-time use, cannabinoids may only remain detectable for 1-2 days. Chronic heavy usage can extend window to 2 months or longer as stores are continually replenished.
HHC Drug Test Detection Times
Since HHC is an emerging compound, studies regarding detection windows are limited. However, its similarities with THC provide some expectations:
| Testing Method | Detection Window |
|---|---|
| Urine | 1-5+ days for infrequent users; up to 3 months for heavy users |
| Blood | 1-2 days |
| Saliva | 1-3 days; up to 29+ days with heavy use |
| Hair | Up to 90 days |
- Urine tests are most common and have the widest detection window
- Saliva and blood tests best detect very recent use
- Hair tests best identify habitual long-term use
These ranges apply for all cannabinoids. Variables such as metabolism and dosage impact precise timing.
Can HHC Lead to Failed Drug Tests?
Standard urine tests search for the THC metabolite THC-COOH. While one HHC metabolite (11-Hydroxy-HHC) differs by one hydrogen atom, high structural similarity raises concern over possible false positive THC tests.
However, anecdotal claims of passing drug screens after taking HHC have sparked debate. More research is needed, but avoiding HHC use prior to testing is currently the safest approach.
How to Clear HHC from Your System
No precise method accelerates cannabinoid excretion. However, staying hydrated, eating healthy, and exercising regularly promote a faster metabolism.
While home remedies like drinking cranberry juice show little reliable evidence, claims have been made regarding:
- Activated charcoal: May reduce reabsorption of metabolites already in the gut.
- Apple cider vinegar: Proposed to help break down fat cells storing cannabinoids.
- Lemon juice: Potentially creates metabolites that mask detection of THC markers.
Scientific support is limited but improvements to general health won’t hurt.
The Takeaway
While HHC shows promise as an intriguing new cannabinoid, effects on drug screening results require further verification. Avoiding consumption prior to upcoming tests is the only guaranteed way to prevent issues.
Overall, individual factors make predicting precise HHC detection windows impossible. Focus on moderation and understanding your body’s reaction to find the right dosage timing and frequency.
FAQS
How long does HHC last?
HHC can last in your system anywhere from 1-5 days for infrequent users. For those who consume HHC more regularly or in higher doses, HHC and its metabolites can remain detectable for 1-3 months. The compound accumulates in fat cells and is slowly released over time. Factors like metabolism, dosage, genetics, and body composition affect duration.
Will HHC show up on a lab test?
It’s possible. Most lab tests search for THC or THC metabolites. While HHC has a slightly different chemical structure, its similarity to THC means tests may still detect it. However, some anecdotal reports indicate people have passed tests after taking HHC. More research is still needed, so avoiding HHC before any drug screening is currently the safest choice.
How long does delta-8 stay in your system urine test?
Delta-8 THC generally stays in your system and is detectable in urine for between 1 and 30 days after last use, depending on individual factors. For infrequent delta-8 users, detection times average 3-5 days. More frequent or higher dose delta-8 use leads to longer detection windows averaging 15-30 days.
Does HHC make your eyes red?
Like THC, HHC can often cause red or bloodshot eyes in many users. However, the degree of redness or dryness tends to be less pronounced with HHC compared to traditional THC products according to anecdotal reports. Lower occurrence of anxiety or paranoia may also play a role in reduced ocular effects.
